Damn, I just found this. Flintstones Bedrock City closes; Raptor Ranch is coming This passage tugged at my nostalgia heart strings. "Bedrock City will remain a page out of Arizona history. It dates back to what now seems like a prehistoric time when families would pile into the station wagon drive cross-country to see the sights." That is exactly what we would do. Though in 1961 we did it with 5 people in a 1957 VW bug. My dad was always big on saving money on gas. (Even when it was $0.29.)
I know what you mean.... When I first heard about Bedrock City being sold, I was a little sad. We had visited it a couple of times years ago. I hate to see pieces of our history taken away. However, I also thought about the reality of the whole situation. Truthfully, it was like many of those old roadside attractions and curiosities. And, what really ticked me off then, and still today, is that they refused to put much effort or imagination into bettering their own attractions. If the owners lose interest in their business, why should customers be enthusiastic? Bedrock City was really nothing more than a few old, weathered cement buildings, a few cement dinos and Fred's car, strewn about in an open field. You had to use a LOT of your own imagination to make it work. The gift shop was dark and dingy with your typical southwestern souvenirs, old beef jerky, and/or empty shelves. So, that's what makes me the saddest. Why couldn't they have poured some love and imagination into it and made it something really special instead of just a gimmick to lure 5 bucks away from road weary, entertainment-hungry travelers? Yet, that said, I am going to miss seeing the giant Fred Flintstone sign off of the highway and that instant surge of imagination it brought.
Yes, I am sure you are right. But 2 years ago we saw the signs and decided against it. Now, I kind of wish we had taken the time. Never occurred to me that it might not be there next time.
"If I forget to say my prayers The devil jumps with glee But he feels so awful awful When he sees me on my knees" I don't think I ever played really close attention to these lyrics.
